The National Insurance number application process is about to change. From 24 April people in the West Midlands wishing to apply for a National Insurance number can call a new local-rate phone number – 0845 600 0643.

“This is a hugely positive development in the modernisation of our service”, said Alan Potts, Operations Manager of Jobcentre Plus’s West Midlands National Insurance team. “From 24 April we will have a hub office in central Birmingham with satellites in Walsall, Hanley, Coventry, Telford and Hereford where applicants can be interviewed by dedicated staff. We will also provide a mobile service for customers unable to attend an office or for employers with a substantial number of new employees.”